Los Angeles Rams' Michael Hoecht Sets Multiple Career Highs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Los Angeles Rams had to move a lot of players around this offseason due to a lack of depth.
Michael Hoecht was listed as a defensive lineman last season but primarily played special teams. However, he switched to the outside linebacker spot this season, and Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers may have proved that the Rams made the right decision.
Hoecht matched a career-high (from last season) in sacks with two, but his two tackles for loss gave him a new personal record. He also led Los Angeles in tackles with seven, which is also a new career-high, tallied two quarterback hits and forced a fumble, but it was recovered by Pittsburgh.
Nevertheless, the Rams lost 24-17 after a controversial first down call that let the Steelers kneel the game away, but Hoecht's performance was truly special.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris (22) runs the ball against Los Angeles Rams linebacker Michael Hoecht (97) and cornerback Cobie Durant (14) during the first half at SoFi Stadium.
Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
The 25-year-old is one of the very few remaining members of the 2021 Rams team that won the Super Bowl. That being said, he endured the 5-12 hangover season in 2022, as many starters were previously traded or went into free agency.
Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris moved Hoecht to outside linebacker because he "stepped up" throughout last season's blunders and the 310-pounder was "the most athletic guy at the time with some experience."
Hoecht often spoke about the switch during training camp and how he wanted to become one of the leaders in the linebacker room and was looking forward to attacking quarterbacks with an active Rams legend.
"When (defensive tackle Aaron Donald) shows up, he turns it on and it never shuts off until the end of the season," Hoecht said. "I'm excited to rush and play off of him."
